Friendship School

Welcome to Friendship School, a specialized program in Imperial Beach dedicated to supporting students with complex learning and health needs. Operated by the South County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA), Friendship School provides a safe, engaging, and multi-sensory learning environment where students ages 3 through 22 receive individualized support to help them grow, learn, and thrive.

Friendship School, located in Imperial Beach, is a special education school serving preschool through transition-aged students from southern San Diego County who have multiple severe disabilities and health impairments. Friendship School provides highly individualized instruction within an award-winning multi-sensory learning environment. Friendship School has previously been recognized with a Golden Bell Award from the California School Boards Association for its innovative programming and commitment to student success.

Each of Friendship School’s classrooms is staffed by a credentialed moderate/severe education specialist and trained support staff, maintaining small class sizes and a strong staff-to-student ratio to ensure individualized attention. Staff members receive ongoing training in specialized health care procedures and instructional strategies to support students with complex needs. Students are supported through individualized educational programs (IEPs) aligned to California standards and focused on functional skill development, including communication, pre-academic skills, social interaction, daily living skills, community access, vocational readiness, and recreation.

Students at Friendship School receive a range of related services based on their individual needs, which may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, vision services, Deaf and hard-of-hearing support, physical therapy, assistive technology, and psychological services. The school also includes on-site health and therapy support to ensure students receive comprehensive care throughout the school day. Through collaborative partnerships with families and districts, Friendship School is committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that support independence, communication, and lifelong skills.